We recently caught up with Omar about how he secured a graduate role with Accenture, how he built up his commercial awareness before the interview and his top tips for Bright Network members looking to follow in his footsteps.
What stood out to you about Accenture before securing your role?
What stood out to me the most was Accenture’s strong focus on inclusion and diversity. Speaking to Accenture employees before joining made me feel like it would be a place where I would feel accepted and supported regardless of my background, ethnicity, or gender.
What is the culture like at Accenture?
Accenture has a warm and friendly culture that encourages collaboration at all levels within the company. Every employee I spoke to, from analysts to managing directors, were very friendly and happy to make time to mentor me despite their busy schedules.
How did you show you have a passion for Accenture at the interview?
I showed passion for Accenture at the interview by talking about previous Accenture projects that were completed in areas that interested me. Accenture has an abundance of fascinating projects online so you will always find things that interest you.
How did you build your commercial awareness before the interview?
I build my commercial awareness by trying to consume a variety of news sources throughout the day. For example, I really enjoy listening to podcasts whilst I go running which was a great way for me to learn about technology and business whilst staying healthy.
What's been the toughest interview question you've faced and how did you tackle it?
My toughest interview question required solving a hypothetical scenario in which my co-worker was in a conflict with a client. I solved this by using the Accenture values to guide my decision making by keeping ‘Respect for the Individual’ in mind.
How have you adapted to working virtually?
Working virtually comes with a lot of challenges; however, I have tried to focus on the benefits that come with remote working. For example, now it is easier than ever before to meet a large breadth of people across varying industries, functions, and locations. Just send out a virtual coffee chat request and people are happy to talk to you!
What has been your working ‘highlight’ thus far?
My working highlight has been taking part in an innovation incubator program which involved working with people across the business to come up with solutions to solve racial inequality within Accenture and wider society. I have found that there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in social causes outside your main project work.
What top three tips would you give Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?
- Network, network, network! The best way to learn about the company is to talk to the employees themselves so reach out to them on LinkedIn. I like to filter on people who went to the same university as me.
- Make sure you know the Accenture values very well as they can help guide your decision-making for interview questions.
- Make sure you have developed Accenture specific commercial awareness by reading the Accenture newsletters and the yearly Tech Vision report.
Let us know where you've secured your work experience, internship or graduate role. We want to celebrate your success with a gift from us and exclusive invitations to evening networking drinks throughout the year.
